In today’s first reading, God promises to make of Abraham a great nation. The second reading calls for Timothy to bear his share of hardship for the sake of the gospel. God’s grace, given through Christ, will provide the strength to do this. The Gospel recounts the Transfiguration of Jesus, giving a glimpse of his resurrected glory.

Jesus may call us to turn away from a life that has become familiar and comfortable. He may ask us to bear hardship for the sake of his teachings. But with fidelity and compassion, he sustains us and reminds us of the glory that awaits us if we trust in him and go where he leads us.